POEM: Living Positively

I'm forever grateful
because it's too much work to be hateful
it's actually distasteful to be disagreeable
but regrettably, many of us are that way
it may be the things we say
or just the way we deal with each other
forgetting that for our brothers
we are the keepers
and as the challenges become steeper
we are supposed to be sweeter
we are to show love and compassion
because this type of behavior
shouldn't be a passing fashion
our actions should always be loving
filled with positive energy and endearing
not just going off what we are hearing or fearing
but based on facts and delivered with tact
We have to challenge ourselves to improve
because it behooves us to do the right thing
our conscience should be our guide 
with a positive image on the inside and outside
reciprocate positively to each other
and give openly to your sisters and brothers
We all have a life to lead
and a legacy to leave on this earth
so even if you had a rough time from your birth
don't let your legacy be negative
put forth good energy and continue to live positively

© Ribbon

Leadership - Things to Think About

Being exposed to different experiences gives us the opportunity to interact with different people, learn about ourselves and use our talents in new ways. I enjoy a challenge when it comes to a task; however, the people element is always the most ticklish. I have been to a recent training about leadership which gave some insight on group dynamics and group roles. I actually prefer to work solo because I can hold me accountable. Working in groups is challenging because everyone does not carry out their tasks. People tend to criticize and complain, but offer no help. Some persons are there just for the show.

When you are put to lead, you become the person who has to make the decisions and of course, have all the answers. Everyone demands to be heard, and expects the leader to make it all work, despite the challenges. When things go wrong, this gets tenser and can lead to conflict. All conflict is not bad because it can stimulate new thinking and needed change. This thought continues to run in my mind: “If someone volunteers to assist in a group, can you ask them to leave the group?”

If you are chosen, thrown into or you ask for leadership, be ready to push, make decisions and take the criticism. Use the resources that you have to make things comes together, including family and friends. Be sure to show appreciation to those who assist in any way. Please don’t dwell on the mishaps. Learn from them and use them to improve. It’s okay to feel bad or a little down if all does not go well. Bounce back and come stronger. Don’t hesitate to pause, reset and try again.

The BVI Mourns for Hon. Ralph T. O'Neal

December 15, 1933 – November 11, 2019

Every nation has it nation builders and/or leaders who inspire, shape and lead the country. In the BVI, one such person is Hon. Ralph T. O'Neal, who passed away on November 11, 2019. He was the Ninth District Representative, which covers Virgin Gorda and Anegada, for almost fort (40) years. He served as Chief Minister and as the territory's first Premier, and was Leader of the Opposition three times. Hon. O'Neal had a wealth of knowledge and was party to many developments which the territory benefits from today. 

My first communication with Hon. O'Neal was when I needed a government service. I was very young and I remember being surprised at how quickly he responded, as Minister for the subject, to my request. Since then, I have never worked with him or had to communicate with him directly. The only time I really interacted with him was at an event and at that moment, I considered him a gentle giant. At that moment, he reminded me of Hon. Reeial George, who had passed on October 21, 2013. Kind, professional, generous, dedicated and polite were the words that came to mind. I had the pleasure of working with Hon. George for a few months and I can attest to his pleasant personality.

Leaders such as Hon. O'Neal and Hon. George leave a legacy that many of us can only aspire to reach. These men and many other nation builders dedicate their lives to serve the people - during the good and the bad. They had vision and charisma, which are great characteristics for a politician. However, I think these stalwarts went far beyond the politics and vested their lives into nation building and developing our people. I think that Hon. O'Neal being elected as Ninth District Representative for almost 40 years speaks for itself. 

I can only encourage the upcoming leaders to always remember their followers and to ensure that the people are always placed first in every decision. We have come a long way in the territory and it will take more people like Hon. Hamilton Lavity Stoutt, Hon. Cyril B. Romney, Mr. Noel Lloyd, Hon. Ralph T. O'Neal, Mr. Lindey deCastro, Hon. Reeial George and others to take us to the next phase, next level, next challenge and next development.

I offer my sincere condolences to the family of Hon. Ralph T. O'Neal and pray that they are comforted at this tough time. May his soul rest in peace.

Jovan Cline Inspires Us with the 'Something On My Mind' Project

Something On My Mind (SOMM) is Jovan Cline's most recent musical project and he is using his talents to inspire, encourage and deliver a positive message. This new music displays Jovan's multiple talents as a rapper, singer and lyricist. Other rising stars, NJAR and TravP, are featured on SOMM.

Jovan shared that Something On My Mind just started off as a 'cool idea'. He expressed that "I love rap, always have. Rap allows a type of pure expression that’s rare to its culture. I love to make and sing gospel worship music, but this time around I wanted to create something that was more down to earth. Rap, for me, is the most relatable form of music. I searched on YouTube for some beats and one by one I started to collect beats and write. Originally I only intended to do a few verses and chorus, getting as many features from as Virgin Islands artist that I could contact... but things didn’t line up that way."

In relation to the collaborations, he spoke positively of being able to work with other up and coming artistes. "I was blessed enough to get NJAR and TravP confirmed on songs. A big turning point of the whole project happened during the production of “Change” with NJAR. He called me one day and really opened my eyes to how big the SOMM project could be and what I should be reaching for. That guy is very inspirational. So from that conversation with NJAR my mind took off." After the conversation with NJAR, Jovan continued to become engulfed in the project and added three additional songs. 

Jovan will be conducting a community survey; additionally, a new song is in the making, which is intended to be the Virgin Island’s equivalent of the famous song “We Are The World”, called “VI United”. Jovan shared, "I’m working with so much talented people and I’m loving it. The SOMM mixtape is intended to connect with listeners on a relatable level, to promote self-awareness and true expression of different emotions, thoughts and messages." He added that the survey is aimed to take an account of the opinions and attention of the BVI’s general public in reference to the country’s development and culture. 

Therefore, “VI United”, is being developed to spread a message of unity across the Virgin Islands and as a call to action for us to be our brother's keeper. According to Jovan, "I’m loving the Something On My Mind project and I hope viewers and listeners not only enjoy but find things about it that put positive and purposeful things on their minds."

Songs on the Mixtape include:

• "Smiled On Me": Lyrics include "Every day's a challenge, this life's a maze, I'm steadily contemplating what's to come and what still is, like am I too late to come up after my mistakes, stop feeling useless, make change with my two cents".
• "Missing You" featuring TravP: Part of the hook is "never thought I'd ever see a day so long, never thought I'd never know what to do, never thought that I'd ever start missing you".
• "Moving": On this song, Jovan showcases his ability to rap. It's a 'must listen to' song.
• "Something On My Mind": This track reflects immense poetic talent and flow. There is definitely a lot on Jovan's mind.
• "Change" featuring NJAR: This song has a Common or Mos Def type of feel and flow. Jovan and NJAR definitely inspire you to want to change and grow with this track.
• "Praying": "Can you hear me now, send help I'm down, can't find my crown, do you see my tears, do you hear my prayers, tell me are you still there" are just a snippet of the lyrics.

Something On My Mind exudes positive energy, inspiring messages and versatility. Visit Jovan's SoundCloud page for the songs listed above and more of his music. 

Reading is Fun Week 2019 Book Parade and Book Fair

Today was an exciting day in the Virgin Islands as we celebrated reading in the our territory. I participated in our Book Parade today and it was a joy being part of the activities.  Students from various schools participated including Joyce Samuel Primary, Ebenezer Thomas Primary, Elmore Stoutt High School, Enid Scatliffe Pre-Primary School, Pelican Gate School, Willard Wheatley Primary, Francis Lettsome Primary and many others. The Parade started at the Festival Grounds and ended at the Central Administration Complex.

Authors represented included Dr. Richard Georges, Rick Grant, Peggy Clyne, Reuben Vanterpool, Verna Penn-Moll, Patricia Turnbull, Michael Anthony, Donald DeCastro, Ethlyn Rymer, Maureen Peters, Norma Benjamin. Grant, Georges and Vanterpool were able to present a short synopsis of their books to the audience.

Book vendors were also on site showcasing their books. Beacon Bible Bookstore and Karyn's Place sold various children's and other books.

Read, encourage others to read and share the importance of reading.

Poem: Bedazzled

Sometimes I think my brain needs
to be bedazzled
because I have so many thoughts
happening at the same time.
I look at possibilities, eventualities,
prophesies and policies,
but I have the answer to none.
And while I think about
what I could have done,
tomorrow is in my face.
So I continue
my hamster wheel race,
trying to keep in pace
while my shoe laces
become un-draped.
My ankles are scraped
and my sleep has been raped,
because I cannot escape
this cycle which I
do not know the fate,
I pretend to have faith,
and I say I'll wait by the gate
but I may as well
buy skates, and run away,
since I have so much to say
and my brain won't
let me get away.
Then all I have to say is
my brain's bedazzled anyway.
So I have to get
it together
despite the weather,
and my personal thoughts.

©  Linette Rabsatt
Ribbon 

POEM: Music Love

This is No Ordinary Love
because it's Never Too Much
we Keep It 100
because I can't deal
with Missing You
and it's true because
We're just Ordinary People
and I love The Way You Move
You keep it Skankin Sweet
and no matter how I get upset
I have no regrets in Loving You
and the Truth Is
that Every Little Thing I Do,
you're on my mind
You're like my Supersonic...
The one I count on
and this is not Forbidden Love
because Everybody Knows
that whether or not
they approve does not dictate
the way this love grows
and that's just
The Way Love Goes

Thank you to Sade, Luther Vandross, TeeJay, Case, John Legend, Outkast, Chronixx, Minnie Riperton, Fantasia, Third World and Janet Jackson for their inspiring music, which further informed this poem.

© Linette Rabsatt
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The Hair Story

Ten years ago, I wrote a post on Facebook about black people not liking their natural hair. I said it based on what people said to me. I also said it because weave and braid sales remain high. I still see those perceptions and thought processes in how we treat our daughters' hair when they reach a certain age. This post is not about who is wrong or right. I know what chemicals did to my hair. Others have processed their hair for years, and they are fine. My advice is always to do what works for you.

Paraphrase of things people have said:

1. Friend: Why are you wearing your hair like that?
The same friend grew locks eventually.

2. Family member: Don't wear your hair like that.
Wearing hair like me now.

3. A Role Model: You need to change your hairstyle.
Switches between perm and natural from time to time.

4. Schools children to a child: When are you going to get braids or weave?
What?

I always say that our race is the one that has the worst thoughts about us. Somehow, we despise our kinky hair, dark skin, and buffness. I don't know why and have realized that this mindset may never change. Does it make any of us less than the others? No. It only becomes a problem when you try to debase another person because of how they look - something our race has been through at the hands of others.

So what's my point? Be the best you - comfortable in your skin, loving your hair, face, and body - just how you prefer.

POEM: Potential

We all have got potential
because God wasn't preferential
when he handed out the talents
and despite people's appearances
they've all got something to offer
even if it's collecting straws
and recycling them into something great
but sometimes we don't have the faith
because people tell us negative things
so we don't bring out our best
therefore, failing the test
but you can't let people hold you back
because there is nothing that you lack
to succeed - just as the air you breathe
you can perform awesome feats
just move your heart, hands and feet
be good to those who meet
and share your talents with vigor
because your energy should be your trigger
You can impact the entire galaxy
but you have to believe in yourself fully
Potential is in all of us
so don't let your talents go to rust
don't let anyone dampen your spirit
stick with it - you've got this!

© Linette Rabsatt

Belle Vue Methodist Congregation Hosts Tea Party on September 28, 2019

The Belle Vue Methodist Congregation is hosting a Tea Party on Saturday, September 28, 2019 from 3:00 to 6:00pm at the JR O'Neal Botanical Gardens. Tickets are being sold for $25 for adults, and $10 for children who are 12 years and under. Come and enjoy our tea, pastries, scones and other goodies, as well as various activities including a hat parade, hat competition and tea pot competition. Everyone is invited to attend and wear their best hat. Proceeds are in aid of the church's building fund. For more tickets and more information, please contact any member of the congregation.

Belle Vue Methodist Congregation

Good Hands Trucking & Water Delivery Delivers School Supplies to JSPS

On Tuesday, September 10, 2019, Anji Walters from Good Hands Trucking and Water Delivery made a special presentation of school supplies to the students of the Joyce Samuel Primary School. Mr. Walters shared that he was thankful for the support he receives, and he wanted to find a way to give back to the community in 2019. He chose the Joyce Samuel Primary School because it is the main school that serves the community that he resides in.

Mr. Walters made the presentation to students at the school in Belle Vue. Each student received a reusable bag with writing books and other essentials. In addition, students were given encouraging words to set the tone for the new school year. Mr. Walters hopes that his actions would encourage other entrepreneurs to do likewise in their community, and looks forward to doing similar in the future.

Being a Manager... My Quick Thoughts

I think that managers play a critical role in setting the tone in an organization.

• You have to be afraid but you can't be so impaired by fear that you cannot make a decision.
• You have to be able to give criticism, but you have to be able to take it too.
• You have to be able to teach, while learning, and getting others in the teaching mindset.
• You have to be confidential, but you can't hoard information that needs to be shared for others to grow.
• You have to be serious, but you have to be able to laugh and come down to earth with your team members.
• You have to be diligent and hardworking, but you have to know when to delegate and empower others - without them feeling like you've dropped your work on them.
• You have to be willing to investigate, and find fault - and be willing to admit when it's your fault.
• You have to be kind, but don't be a walkover.
• You have to be unbiased, but you have to know when you have to make a decision that may be hard on someone.
• You have to be able to communicate and make presentations, and you have to do your research and be prepared. There's no going around this.

These are just my quick thoughts on August 26, 2019. Please comment and add more.

Daily Juggling - Making, Making Do and Doing

When you venture into any public space outside of your house, you have to put on your game face, tuck in your tummy and get ready for the challenges. No matter how you plan and coordinate, you have to be ready for the inevitable. I have been planning this whole week to package some files and I really think that I have had the best intentions.

However, every day something else pops up - some good and some bad. There are some things that I would prefer to avoid but if I want to be successful in my current role, I have to try to meet the various demands. There is a lot that I don't plan for and it's not that I am disorganized or that I procrastinate. It's just the nature of the way things work. The unexpected comes and you have to respond. Sometimes, I am at a loss as to how to respond and I have to take time to consider the situation.

When you go to college, you learn a lot of theory and you discuss what the possibilities could be in a situation. Real life is much different. I always encourage people to share their story on their journey so that others can learn from them. Raising a family, being an entrepreneur, working or leading a non-profit are all individual roles that demand your full attention and energy. There are some people who juggle all and more. Consider what challenges they may meet on a daily basis.

Therefore, we are all jugglers in some way. Today, I was told that sometimes we need take our time with situations and the advice is well taken. I find I have bursts of energy and other times, I feel overwhelmed. However, I put my best foot forward and try to accomplish as much as I can. The advice I mentioned has played out well several times because we often feel that we don't have the solution. We let the matter rest and eventually we find a solution or a solution finds us.

Whatever your role might be, you have to stay focused and as Kenny Rogers sang, you have to know when to hold, fold, walk away or run. Balance your priorities, maintain your physical health and be the best you that you can be.

ribbon

Acrostic Poem: Emancipation

Every soul rejoiced
Minds and bodies calmed
All engaged in the fight
Never flailing, never relenting
Capacities imagined and envisioned
Invigorated energy
Purposeful intentions
Anticipation for the future generations
Tireless toiling ended
Inventive mindset to resume
Open minds and arms to a
New life in freedom

© Linette Rabsatt

Words of Ribbon 2019

Fierce Competition in 2019 BVI Soca Monarch Competition... and the Winner Is...

Ramon George, BVI Soca Monarch 2019
Photo Credit: BVI Soca Monarch Facebook Page

According to the BVI Soca Monarch Facebook page, the winner of the competition on Saturday, August 3, 2019 was Ramon, whose song was Rampage. First Runner-up was JJ, whose song was All of That, and third runner up was Diffy, whose song was Sip Sip.

Original article published on July 25, 2019:
It's time again for the BVI Soca Monarch competition! Eight (8) competitors are vying for the title of  2019 BVI Soca Monarch - each artiste with his distinct flavor and style. The reigning BVI Soca Monarch from 2017 is JJ and he is competing once again in 2019.

After Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017, festival was scaled down. However, the British Virgin Islands continues to progress and recover, and part of this process includes showcasing our culture and taking time to celebrate our emancipation from slavery. This year marks the 65th celebration of Festival in the territory and 185 years of emancipation from slavery.

The BVI Soca Monarch competition is slated for Saturday, August 3, 2019 at the Primetime Festiville and several regional artistes will also be performing including Mr. Killa known for "Run Wid It", Rupee known for "Think Twice" and "Tempted to Touch", Freezy known for "Woy", and Explainer known for "Lorraine".

The competitors include known band members and other budding artistes who are full of energy, spunk and talent. The songs listed below were shared by the BVI Soca Monarch organizers for the public to vote for their favorite. I enjoyed listening to all the songs and confirm that I would not want to be a judge for this show because the artistes have come strong this year.

Keep It 100 by TeeJay
TeeJay is a member of VIBE, the reigning BVI Road March champions. He is the lead singer of the band's "Eye Contact" and "Don't Leave". "I 'm so much better with you by my side, feels like I can do whatever, but I don't want to feel like I lied" are a sample of the lyrics. The song has a groovy feel, like a soca love song. The song flows well with the rhythm and pace so it's left to the actual performance to see if TeeJay will be the winner.

All of That by JJ
JJ is a member of OMG (Our Music Group) and is the reigning BVI Soca Monarch. His song gives a Caribbean flavour as he sings about coming to do "All of That". This song is an example of 'feel good' music that keeps your fingers and feet tapping. Lyrics include "Don't care if you want to judge me, is my life - is I decide to get on like I have no training". This song does reflect that JJ has some soca training though.

Chappy Boy 65 by Chap Chap
Chap Chap is well known in the BVI and his father, Chappy is also a known band man who sang in Primetime, the band the festival village is named after. Chap Chap sings "Waving up the flags, slavery is no more, freedom come through the door, I jamming til my body sore". This song is high energy with a rhythm that is synonymous with BVI Festival music. He is a serious contender and if the performance energy is high, he stands a good chance to win.

Rampage by Ramon
Ramon's song invites you to really have fun and go on a rampage! I hope that with the infectious rhythm and lyrics which entice you to move, Ramon will take the stage on a rampage when he performs on August 3, 2019. "We on a rampage, on the road Parade Day, we going leave it ablaze..." are some of the lyrics.

We Ain't Going Home by Pascal
Pascal is another member of OMG and he is not new to the music scene in the BVI. "We jamming again and we ain't going home, we got our friends and we ain't going home" are some lyrics. This is another high energy song with lots of rhythm to get you off your feet. The rhythm varies in the song and brings excitement to the listener.

Dilaahlaah FM by Mr. Bluez
Mr. Bluez's song is unique in style and rhythm and it seems to have influences from other genres. "Ahyu I think done, bring my other shot of the rum" and "The fete is my home, I'm a party animal" are some of the lyrics.

Wuk Up Permit by Jim Bob
I would say Jim Bob's "Wuk Up Permit" has the most fun and unique lyrics. I guess with all the improvements that the government is making with work permit processing, the song is ideal for this competition. Jim Bob sings "She here on a wuk up permit, shake your hips like you working for tips, homeboy don't rub up on it, cause a money man done eat it!"

Sip Sip by Diffy
Diffy's song "Sip Sip" is surely different. "Sip sip on it" encourages you to groove while sipping on your favorite drink at the festival bar. Lyrics include "Behind the truck, having my fun ..... we chipping and we sipping...." This is going to be an interesting performance.

I wish all the competitors good luck because the competition is looking tight. It's hard to say who is my favorite and since I do not have the judging criteria, I refrain from making any predictions.

** Thank you to Virgin Islands News Online for featuring excerpts of this post in their article, "Big $$ up for Grabs @ Fierce Soca Monarch Competition".

a to z the usa: Arts and Culture in U.S. Virgin Islands

Thank you for sharing information about VI Callalloo: Poems from the Caribbean!

a to z the usa: Arts and Culture in U.S. Virgin Islands: Arts and Culture in U.S. Virgin Islands The cultural life of the U.S. Virgin Islands is filled with contrasts and connections.

Travelling on LIAT - My Experience

I am sharing my positive experience with flying with LIAT over the past few days. The customer service was on point and the flights were all on-time and problem free. I was updated at every point during the travel and literally have no complaints. Kudos on great service, LIAT!

We complain when there are issues but we hardly take the time to report the successes. Therefore, I think it is time to share more positive feedback and highlight good service. LIAT is the original Caribbean Airline and should be acknowledged for continuing to serve us. I compare this experience to my travel on Air Jamaica some years ago and the experience was similar - positive. 

If I compare this recent flight to my trip to Guyana in 2008 when Caribbean Airlines bumped me off in Trinidad and left me to sleep in the airport with no apology, then I have to praise LIAT... because I surely cursed Caribbean Airlines.

The only criticism I would give is that the service counters should ensure that they have Immigration forms for the various destinations. BVI did not have Trinidad forms and Antigua did not have BVI forms. This was especially important when we got to Trinidad because the Trinidad Immigration team could use some customer service training.

On the return leg home, there was an alarm raised in St. Maarten and we were notified and updated. We were still able to arrive in BVI on time! I will be happy to travel on LIAT again!

Some Musical Storytellers

I like to listen to all types of music. Sometimes the lyrics are garbage but the song has good rhythm and dance vibe. Sometimes, the dance vibe is enough. On the other hand, I do love a song that tells a story and keeps me enthused at the same time.

Some of the music of the 60s to the 80s told a story. Country musicians loved telling stories and a good example was Kenny Rogers in his song The Gambler. The Mighty Sparrow told lots of stories and he greatly influenced the soca and calypso we enjoy today. Jean and Dinah and Obeah Wedding are great examples of Sparrow's lyrical genius. Bob Marley was another exciting lyricist who shared so many aspect of life in his reggae albums. No Woman, No Cry and Trenchtown Rock keep us listening to hear a tale in reggae style.

Nicholas "Daddy Friday" Friday was one example of a talented musician, along with The Jam Band, who kept people in the Virgin Islands and the wider Caribbean enthralled by his catchy and insightful lyrics - all sung to a rhythmic balance of rhythm box, live instruments and drums. Jam Band's discography include We From De VI, Hugo and Let Loose.

Hip Hop had its share of storytellers including Slick Rick in Children's Story, Sugar Hill Gang in Rapper's Delight, and Will Smith as Fresh Prince in Summertime. Later R&B had hits like I Wish by Carl Thomas, Boyfriend Number 2 by Pleasure P and Need You Bad by Jazmine Sullivan.

I listen to many genres but these days, I mostly listen to the old school music. The depth of the music is not the same today. I do find myself listening to more soca these days because I think the genre has grown and there's even a collaboration with Machel Montano and Ashanti in The Road. 

Soca that I am pumping in car these days include:

• Kerwin Du Bois - Right for Somebody
• Teddyson John - Vent
• Jougo (VIBE) - Rule Numba Uno
• Kelly Jr. - Love Trip
• Pressure BussPipe - Do It and Done
• Machel Montano - Epic (2014)
• Skinny Fabulous, Machel Montano and Bunji Garlin - Famalay
• Farmer Nappy - Hookin Meh

Music is entertainment, it influences, it inspires, it evolves and it helps us to keep fit. Music is truly life.